SchUM City Worms

In scarcely any European city can one marvel at as many significant architectural testimonies of Jewish history and tradition spanning ten centuries as in "Warmaisa," the Hebrew name for the city of Worms, once also known as "Little Jerusalem." Whether it's the Jewish cemetery "Heiliger Sand," the Jewish quarter with synagogue, ritual bath (Mikveh), and Jewish Museum, Jewish tradition is still present in Worms today.

Building on this heritage, the city of Worms - together with the cities of Mainz and Speyer - was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. Under the name SchUM, an acronym derived from the initial letters of the medieval Hebrew city names (Schpira, Warmasia, Magenza), attention is drawn to the past and present Jewish culture.

What does the term SchUM actually stand for?

The acronym "SchUM" refers to the three historical Jewish communities of Speyer, Worms, and Mainz in medieval Germany. The letters "SchUM" come from the initial letters of the medieval names of these cities, which trace back to the Hebrew language:

• Sch for Schpira (Speyer)
• U for Warmaisa (Worms)
• M for Magenza (Mainz)

These three cities had a significant Jewish presence and played a crucial role in the Jewish history and culture of the Middle Ages. SchUM represents the outstanding Jewish communities and their cultural, religious, and intellectual significance during that time.

How can I best visit the sites of Jewish heritage in Worms?

During a visit to Worms, there are numerous ways to explore the rich Jewish heritage and historical significance of the Jewish community. You can participate in a guided city tour to learn interesting facts about various sites of Jewish history in Worms. Alternatively, you can visit one of the thematic exhibitions at the Nibelungen Museum or the Worms City Museum to gain a deeper insight into the history of the Jewish community in Worms. Of course, you can also explore key places of Jewish history on your own, at your own pace, visiting important sites such as the old Jewish cemetery "Heiliger Sand," the synagogue, synagogue square, and the Judenhof.

Before your visit, check the opening hours of museums, synagogues, and memorial sites to ensure you don't miss any highlights.

Which places should I visit to learn more about the Jewish history of Worms?

• Jewish Cemetery "Heiliger Sand": One of the oldest and most significant Jewish cemeteries in Europe, with graves dating back at least to the year 1050.
• Rashi House (Rashi-Haus): Named after the renowned medieval Jewish scholar Rashi, this building serves as a museum and cultural center, providing insights into Jewish life in Worms.
• Synagogue and Ritual Bath (Mikveh): The Worms Synagogue, along with the adjoining Mikveh, offers glimpses into the religious life of the Jewish community.
• Jewish Museum in Worms (Jüdisches Museum): The exhibits in this museum showcase the history and culture of the Jewish community in Worms.
• Stolpersteine: These "Stumbling Stones" in Worms, part of a widespread memorial project, commemorate the victims of the Holocaust at their last freely chosen place of residence.

You can explore these places either with a guided city tour or venture out on your own. If you want to delve deeper into the background of Judaism in the SchUM cities, you can embark on a journey through time with the SchUM App.